Friday, February 28, 2014

Penguins, Morocco, HEB and GEMS

Comparing height, weight, looking at characteristics, describing habitats and adaptations, is all part of the first grade penguin unit at our school. Last year during a Wordless Wednesday linky. I posted pictures of the great learning going on during this unit.

This year, I shared with the teachers these fun Penguin cams! I have enjoyed watching these fun and playful little creatures. I've listed a few penguin cams below. These are great for writing observations about animal behaviors.

Click on the picture for a free penguin observation journal. Students can do a daily check-in to see see the behavior of the penguins. It might help to create a penguin vocabulary anchor chart with words that describe their behavior to help young students write their observations.

A third grade teacher at our school was in the Peace Corp. She is still active in the organizations, so she was able to organize a Skype session all the way to Morocco! Students began researching the land of Morocco and it's traditions. The 3 cute girls, on their own, created a poster to share with the Peace Corp. worker. Prior to the actual Skype session, I helped the class practice their Skyping skills! They did a great job. It was very interesting to learn about the Moroccan land, culture and traditions.

Another great GEMS (Girls Excelling in Math and Science) after school session. Based on feedback from last year, the girls wanted more math related activities. This session was on symmetry in the natural world. We looked at symmetry in nature and architecture. Then, we created name symmetry monsters. Super creative girls!

Our district is a finalist for the HEB Excellence in Education Award. I was honored to be part of the district panel who were interviewed by the HEB judging committee. May is the big award ceremony where they announce the winner! Fingers crossed!

Alamo Heights Independent School District, a finalist in the 2014 large school district category, is the heart of its community. The district strives to educate and empower every student to excel academically and as a confident, compassionate citizen.

This morning, one of my former teammates, Nancy, posted the graphic below on Facebook. It could not have come at a better time. This has been some week!